Showing posts with label enter a series. Show all posts
Showing posts with label enter a series. Show all posts

Tuesday, 30 August 2011

Replacing the Flux Capacitor

I am the Warden!!

If you've read my last post on the Matrix: Restoration playtest, then you'll know that we broke the Optional System. And it's a good thing. Breaking the game allows you to see the long-term flaws of a game should you allow it to extent to the point of ridiculous bonuses and limitless potential. If you don't push your mechanics to the limit, you'll never know what they can do.

This past weekend, we were rolling into the 70s, 80s, and even 90s on some rolls. It... was... insane. And while this may seem to border on the absurd, one key element remained. We had fun. Every playtest I've ever run so far has resulted in every player shouting out for joy at least once. That, to me, counts as a huge success. From these results, we discussed what worked and what didn't to develop revisions to many of the core mechanics of the Optional System. There's quite a few of them, so get comfy and let's get started.

Monday, 1 August 2011

Matrix: Restoration (Part 2)

I am the Warden!!

(It has been pointed out I should be referring to myself as the Architect when I'm talking about the Matrix. Very true and very cool, but perhaps I'll save that for the credits page.)

Us Canadians have the pleasure of a long weekend (Correction: Us Ontarianians) that's been used for two ends. One, helping Lady Warden rearrange the living room and rewire the entertainment centre. Two, sit in front of this computer while the sun shines and pop out thousands of words on how the Matrix and the Optional System go hand in hand. How well have things gone? Let's just say there's no longer a glare on the TV during the day and I look paler now than when the weekend started.

Challenge Is Where You Find It
As anyone who likes to think of themselves as an RPG designer should, I did a quick search for other Matrix RPGs (all freebies) to see what's been done before. An interesting note is that no one likes the sequels. One RPG in particular, There Is No Spoon, comes right out and insists any player who mentions Reloaded or Revolutions be slapped in the face. Ouch.